Cats with Cold: Common Symptoms & Care Tips
Cat flu symptoms can be quite telling of a cat's health status, as they often cannot communicate with us directly. As pet owners, it's crucial to recognize these symptoms to ensure our feline friends remain in good health.
Here are some common signs of cat flu:
1. Runny Nose and Noisy Breathing – Cats, much like humans, can experience a runny nose and noisy breathing when they have a cold. This is particularly noticeable in cats, who are relatively inactive and spend a lot of time sleeping. If their breathing becomes too loud, it might indicate a cold.
2. Watery Eyes – When a cat has a cold, it can lead to nasal congestion. Since the tear ducts are connected to the nose, if the nose is blocked, tears will simply flow out of the tear ducts. This is a normal response, similar to what happens to humans when they have a cold.
3. Sneezing – Sneezing is often a sign of nasal irritation or deep itching from the outside, which is involuntarily released through sneezing. Just like in humans, sneezing is a common symptom of a cold.
4. Coughing or Shaking – A cold can also cause coughing, and in severe cases, it may lead to shaking. However, there's no need to worry too much about these symptoms.
These symptoms are quite similar to those in humans, so cats are susceptible to catching a cold. As their owners, it's essential to keep a close eye on them.
When a cat has a cold, medication is usually required. The same type of medication used for humans can be given to cats, but the dosage should be reduced to a quarter of the human dose. To administer the medication, crush the tablet in water and then use a syringe to feed it to the cat. Cats are generally good at taking medication, so this method can help heal their bodies. After giving the medication, gently hold the cat's mouth closed and wipe away any residue between the lips.
As responsible cat lovers, we can help keep our pets healthy by ensuring they engage in regular exercise, are fed a balanced diet, and receive proper care. By doing so, we can protect them from illnesses and ensure they live happy, healthy lives.
